Four U.S. Navy aircrew members survived after two military aircraft collided mid-air during an air show near Mountain Home Air Force Base, raising renewed concerns about aviation safety during public aerial demonstrations.
According to officials, the incident occurred at approximately 12:10 p.m. MDT during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show, a public aviation event that had recently returned after an eight-year suspension.
Two Navy Growler Jets Crash After Mid-Air Collision
Authorities confirmed that the aircraft involved were two Boeing EA-18G Growler jets operated by Electronic Attack Squadron 129, a unit specializing in electronic warfare operations.
Officials said all four aircrew members safely ejected from the aircraft before the crash, avoiding serious injuries.
The jets later crashed approximately two miles away from the air base, where emergency response teams quickly secured the area and launched recovery operations.
Investigation Underway Into Air Show Accident
The exact cause of the mid-air collision remains unknown, and U.S. authorities have initiated a formal aviation investigation to determine what led to the accident.
Investigators are expected to examine:
- Flight data recordings
- Aircraft conditions
- Communication records
- Operational procedures
- Air show flight coordination systems
Officials temporarily closed nearby roads and sections of the highway as emergency crews managed the crash site and gathered evidence.
Gunfighter Skies Air Show Faces Renewed Safety Concerns
The Gunfighter Skies Air Show had recently resumed after an eight-year break. The event was previously linked to a fatal aviation accident in 2018, making the latest crash particularly concerning for organizers and aviation safety experts.
Despite the seriousness of the incident, officials emphasized that the safe ejection of all four crew members was considered a positive outcome.
Aviation Experts Stress Importance of Air Show Safety
Military aviation analysts say air shows involve highly coordinated aerial maneuvers that require strict operational planning, communication, and safety protocols.
The investigation is expected to help determine whether mechanical issues, pilot coordination problems, or operational factors contributed to the collision.
Authorities say findings from the inquiry could help improve future military air show safety procedures and prevent similar incidents in the future.
